SMPTE 410-2008

This document defines an extension of the MXF File Format that allows specific classes of data streams to be contained in MXF Body Partitions.

The classes of data streams are either essence that is unevenly distributed along the timeline or large amounts of metadata that cannot suitably be stored in the Header Metadata. Examples for such data streams are time-varying metadata, structured text files and 'lumpy' essence, i.e. that is not evenly spread along the timeline.

The Generic Stream Container is not intended to carry metadata that could be placed in MXF Header Metadata or essence or metadata that could suitably be stored in the MXF Generic Container.

This document defines the KLV encoding methods used to carry the data stream.

This document also defines partitions that are used to multiplex Generic Streams into the byte stream of MXF files. These Generic Stream Partitions provide for the carriage of Generic Streams in separate partitions from those partitions carrying Essence Container data or Index Table segments.

Essence and metadata payloads that are carried in Generic Stream Partitions are defined in associated documents. This document defines rules for the documents that specify the Generic Stream Payloads and their application. It also defines the basic linking mechanisms of Generic Streams to the Header Metadata of the MXF file.